PIXIE Lott, Tinchy Stryder and The Courteneers are among the acts taking to the stage at this year's Chester Rocks music festival.

Now in its second year, it will be staged at the City’s racecourse on Saturday and Sunday, June 16-17.

The Courteeners, who will headline on the opening day, were formed by front man Liam Fray following his success playing acoustic sets as a singer-songwriter around bars in Manchester whilst a student.

Following their first gig at the Manchester Roadhouse in 2006, the band quickly went from strength to strength.

They released their debut single "Cavorting" in 2007 and in 2008 the band set off on a sell-out tour of major venues across the UK.

In December that year the were crowned inaugural winners of the Guardian's First British Album Award.

Last year they played three shows at the Manchester Apollo to over 10,000, selling out in just 12 minutes.

Supporting them at Chester Rocks will be Liverpool band Cast - whose new album, Troubled Times, was released on Sunday - and The Rifles.

Pixie Lott will headline the festival on June 17.

Her debut single 'Mama Do' went straight to number one in 2009. Her debut album 'Turn It Up', spawned five consecutive Top 20 singles and sold over a million copies.

'All About Tonight' from her second album was released in September 2011 and premiered at number 1.

Pixie made her debut on the festival circuit at the Big Top at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2009, since then she is now renowned for her live performances.

Her special guests on June 17 will be Katy B, Maverick Sabre, Labrinth and Tinchy Stryder.

Last year saw over 15,000 people walk through the gates, and organisers expect this year's figure to increase significantly.

Tickets go on general release from Ticketmaster.co.uk - 0844 844 044 from Friday. For more details visit Chester-rocks.com.